VSU Computer Science students sweep top awards at regional tech and innovation event

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSCS) students from the Visayas State University (VSU) Main Campus made a strong impression at the 2025 Regional Smart Communities Exposition and Networking Engagement (RSCENE), held from June 15-18, 2025 in Catbalogan City, Samar. 

Competing across two different events, they brought home top prizes and earned recognition from industry leaders and innovation experts alike

Dominance in Code-IT Programming Challenge

In the fast-paced Code-IT Programming Challenge, VSU students took over the podium, claiming all three top spots. 

The competition tasked participants with solving up to 20 algorithm problems in two hours on the HackerRank platform using the programming language of their choice. 

Yñigo Niño C. Ramas, a 2nd-year BSCS student, secured 1st place, followed by Norman John N. Bandibas, a 1st-year student, who took 2nd place. Martin Benedict E. Ybas, also a 1st-year BSCS student, rounded out the top three with a 3rd place finish. 

They were coached by Mr. Jomari Joseph A. Barrera, a faculty member at the Department of Computer Science and Technology (DCST). 

Their clean sweep of the competition not only earned them cash prizes and certificates but also caught the attention of Symph, a Cebu-based software company. 

Representatives from the firm engaged with the winners during the event and expressed interests in bringing them into their internship program. 

This early connection between VSU students and the technology industry shows just how much promise young programmers from the region have, and how competitions like Code-IT can open doors to bigger opportunities. 

Innovation for Climate Change: Siklo Squad Takes 1st Place

VSU also emerged at the top in a separate event, the IDEA + Reverse Pitching Competition that focuses on generating tech-based responses to environmental issues. 

Out of entries submitted from across Eastern Visayas, Siklo Squad from VSU was selected as one of the six finalists. On June 17, they presented their proposal in front of a panel of inventor-entrepreneurs. 

Their concept focused on improving waste management in the region through a digital platform that promotes community involvement in recycling and supports Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs).

The platform encourages a more sustainable approach to daily living that is easier to adopt and track by rewarding users for their participation in waste segregation and delivery.

The team behind the project are 1st-year students: Geryme M. Vega, Radz Ponce A. Moreno, John Andrei B. Kahano, Carl Roy F. Arañez, and Mr. Barrera who served as their faculty mentor. 

Siklo Squad’s pitch earned the highest score based on usability, relevance, and potential to create real change. 

In addition to a cash prize and certificates, the team received offers of support from innovation networks interested in helping them move the project forward. 

A Look Inside VSU’s Approach to Computer Science

Mr. Barrera, who played a dual role as coach and mentor in both competitions, reflected on what these wins say about the kind of learning happening in VSU. 

“What we are seeing is how students can translate classroom knowledge into real results whether it is solving algorithmic problems under time pressure or building a platform that helps address climate-related issues in our communities,” he said. 

He also added that the academic structure allows students to go beyond the usual course requirements and test their skills in real-world situations. These victories show how they are taking that challenge seriously.

The BSCS program in VSU places a strong emphasis on both technical depth and social impact. 

Students are trained in core programming and systems thinking, while also taking part in projects that relate directly to the needs of the communities. This balance helps produce graduates who are not only skilled, but also conscious of how their work can affect others. 

What happened at RSCENE 2025 brought together young minds who are beginning to shape the future of technology in the region. 

For the students, the experience was also deeply personal. 

“It felt surreal being called for 1st place,” said Vega from Siklo Squad. 

“We weren’t just there to compete. We wanted to offer something useful. It was exciting to see that our idea made sense to others and could be part of a bigger solution.”

Meanwhile, the Dean of the Faculty of Computing Dr. Jude B. Rola shared how this achievement reflects the direction of the university’s computing programs. 

“This is a big moment not only for our Computer Science students but for the entire Faculty of Computing. It shows what our learners are capable of when given the opportunity to work on both technical and socially relevant problems. We are deeply thankful to the LGU of Baybay for supporting our students’ participation in RSCENE. That kind of support makes these experiences possible.” he said. 

This article is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) No. 4: Quality Education, and; SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.

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